IMPORTANT NOTE: Be a responsible traveller! All information on this post is accurate from the time of writing. Rules, regulations, and guidelines are updated frequently and may change without Klook’s prior notice. For your safety, check with the respective destination directly before your travels.
Dreaming of glitzy extravagance?
Dubai is the place to be for all things luxury, architectural feats, and just plain old fun in the desert. The global city offers endless attractions at every turn. From its cloud-scraping towers and incredible shopping scene to exciting theme parks; good times are practically guaranteed. The great news is that you can enjoy all of that and more thanks to lighter travel restrictions in Dubai!
But before you travel to Dubai, here are all the essential information you need for a hassle-free trip:
- What requirements do I need to travel from Australia to UAE?
- What are the exemptions for the RT-PCR test requirement?
- What COVID-19 measures are implemented in Dubai?
- What activities can you do in Dubai?
- What else is good to know?
1. What requirements do I need to travel from Australia to UAE?
Aussies planning to travel to Dubai need to present a valid vaccination certificate with a QR code showing that you’re fully vaccinated.
If you’re not fully vaccinated, you must show one of the following:
- A negative COVID-19 PCR test issued within 48 hours from the time of sample collection and issued by an approved health service provider with a QR code
- A valid medical certificate with a QR code issued by authorities that the passenger has recovered from COVID-19 within one month before the date of arrival
2. What are the exemptions for the RT-PCR test requirement?
For vaccinated and unvaccinated visitors, one of the most important things to note when travelling to Dubai is the random spot-checks. Once you’ve arrived at the airport, you may be asked to undergo a COVID-19 PCR test and self-isolate until you receive a negative result.
The following people are exempt from the test:
- Children below 12 years old.
- Passengers with moderate to severe disabilities:
- These include neurological disorders and intellectual or developmental disabilities. For example: Acute spinal cord injury, Alzheimer's disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Ataxia, Autism spectrum, Bell's palsy, Brain tumours, Cerebral aneurysm, Cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, Epilepsy and seizures.
3. What COVID-19 measures are implemented in Dubai?
If you’re worried about surviving the desert heat with a mask, then you’re in luck. Masks are now optional in outdoor spaces, although they’re still required indoors.
While many Dubai travel restrictions have been lifted, make sure to check the requirements first before you visit an attraction. Some venues like the Dubai Expo 2020 require PCR Tests within the previous 72 hours.
4. What activities can you do in Dubai?
Now that we’ve covered all the nitty-gritty COVID deets, it’s time for some fun!
No matter how long (or short) your trip is, you can fill your Dubai travel itinerary to the brim, thanks to its endless attractions. The city has it all: iconic skyscrapers, a well-preserved historic quarter, kid-friendly adventure parks, world-class museums, and more. Here are some ideas for inspo!
Burj Khalifa
Feel like you’re on top of the world when you visit the observation deck of the Burj Khalifa. As the crown jewel of Dubai’s sparkling skyline, the world’s tallest building offers unrivalled views of the desert, the bay, and five-star hotels. Besides the views, the tower is also home to some pretty great art installations fromartists around the world.
Desert Safari
No visit to the City of Gold is complete without going on an adventure in the desert. Go on an evening desert safari tour to avoid the heat and get amazing photos during golden hour. Feel the thrill and leave the others in the dust as you travel onboard a powerful 4x4 vehicle. Top off the memorable night with a belly dancing show and a BBQ dinner for the full experience.
Ain Dubai
If you’ve travelled to Dubai before and you’re looking for something new to do, Ain Dubai is the place for you. Opened in October 2021, the world’s tallest observation wheel is an experience like no other. Boasting air-conditioned cabins, a bar, and entertainment, you’ll get a whole new perspective ofthe Dubai skyline. Plus, it’s almost twice as tall as the London Eye!
Atlantis Aquaventure And Lost Chambers Aquarium
Dubai is the city of superlatives. From the tallest building and observation wheel, you can head to the world’s largest water park and make a splash at Atlantis Aquaventure and Lost Chambers Aquarium. Take the plunge and enjoy the twists and turns in all of their 105 water slides. Then, visit 65,000 marine animals at the aquarium for a full day of fun.
5. What else is good to know?
To enjoy full access to the country’s public spaces, you can download and register your vaccine certificate using the Alhosn app five days before your departure to the UAE. It’s only required for residents, but vaccinated tourists are more than welcome to use it. It can be used for entry to malls, cinemas, museums, restaurants, and other public areas.